By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, July 1, 2017 : A coastal economic zone is expected to come up in Odisha linking Paradip Port with the Dhamra Port as part of Sagarmala National Perspective Plan, according to Niti Aayog Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Amitabh Kant.

Kant on Saturday told media persons here that around 50 sq.km of land would be needed for developing the infrastructure in the area.

Kant, who was accompanied by senior central officials, hailed Odisha for registering significant progress in health, education and other social indicators.

There is vast scope for economic development by integrating both the port areas and developing a coastal economic zone, Kant remarked adding that such a scope is not available in any other area of the country.

Kanta met chief minister Naveen Patnaik and requested him to provide required land for the purpose.

The Chief Minister said the state government was committed for the development of Paradip-Dhamra area into a world economic zone.

A team of officials on Saturday visited Dhamra and Paradip ports to assess the situation.

Some 14 Coastal Economic Zones (CEZ) have been identified along the coastline of the country in the Sagarmala National Perspective Plan.

These CEZs are aimed at promoting development of port-proximate industrial clusters, encourage port-led development, reduction of logistics cost and time for movement of domestic cargo and enhance the global competitiveness of Indian manufacturing sector.